Indian Navy Day is observed annually on December 4 every year. It is a significant day that
honors the courage, dedication, and achievements of the Indian Naval forces.
The day holds immense importance as it commemorates the strategic, successful Operation
Trident in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971.
Indian Navy Day is a powerful reminder of the Navy’s pivotal role in safeguarding the nation. It
also serves to educate and increase public awareness about the Navy’s contributions and
challenges.
Historical Background
The Indian Navy, established in 1612 by the East India Company, has a long and storied history.
However, its immense significance in Indian Defence was particularly highlighted during
the Indo-Pak War of 1971.
On December 3, 1971, in response to Pakistan’s offensive attacks, the Indian Navy launched
Operation Trident. This operation was led by Commodore Kasargod Pattanashetti Gopal Rao
and targeted the Pakistan Naval Headquarters in Karachi. It involved missile boats INS Veer,
INS Nipat, INS Nirghat, and Vidyut-class boats and accomplished the the sinking of three
Pakistani Navy ships, including PNS Khaibar, resulting in heavy Pakistani casualties.
Establishment of Navy Day
In May 1972, the decision was made to celebrate Indian Navy Day on December 4 at the Senior
Naval Officer’s Conference. The date was selected to acknowledge Indian Navy’s efforts and
achievements during the 1971 war, particularly Operation Trident’s success.
Theme for 2023
The theme for Indian Navy Day 2023 is “Operational Efficiency, Readiness, and Mission
Accomplishment in the Maritime Domain.” It reflects the Indian Navy’s commitment to
maintaining high operational efficiency and readiness and ensuring successful mission
accomplishment in the maritime domain. It reinforces the Navy’s role in protecting national
interests and regional stability while emphasizing the importance of technology, training, and
strategic alliances.
As per ANI, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend Navy Day 2023 celebrations at
Sindhudurg. He would be unveiling a statue of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort and
witnessing Operational Demonstrations undertaken by the Indian Navy’s ships, aircraft,
submarines, and special forces from Tarkarli Beach.
Bengali